At the 2026 public meeting of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent addressed ongoing efforts to improve financial literacy in the United States. As chair of the Commission, Bessent highlighted the importance of early financial education and its impact on lifelong decision-making.
Bessent discussed the Trump Accounts initiative, which aims to provide every eligible American child with a $1,000 federal seed contribution invested in the U.S. stock market. He stated, "Trump Accounts are a generational downpayment on the American Dream. They will put Americans on an investing journey from the very start of life. Each eligible American child will receive a $1,000 federal seed contribution invested in the U.S. stock market, giving them a tangible stake in the most powerful economy in the world. For most families, claiming that investment will be as simple as checking a box."
He emphasized that this initial investment is just one part of a broader effort supported by philanthropists, charitable organizations, employers, and state governments. "This initial federal investment in Trump Accounts is only the beginning. We are now seeing in real time a groundswell of support for Trump Accounts from philanthropists, charitable organizations, employers, and state governments. This is a broad and growing bipartisan coalition that recognizes the simple steps we can take today to shape a lifetime of financial stability for American citizens," Bessent said.
The program has already received significant private support. Michael and Susan Dell contributed $6.25 billion to Trump Accounts—the largest single private investment for children in U.S. history—while Ray Dalio helped launch Treasury’s “50 State Challenge” to encourage further philanthropic involvement nationwide.
Bessent noted that states have played an important role through existing child savings accounts and financial education programs and called for continued collaboration with governors and state agencies to build on these efforts.
He also encouraged businesses to join: "I want to take a moment to call on businesses and employers across the country to participate in this effort. Many employers already help their workers save for retirement; now, we have a chance to extend that same culture of saving to the next generation. Employer contributions, family matches, and educational partnerships can multiply the impact of every Trump Account."
According to Bessent, Trump Accounts offer not only financial resources but also practical learning opportunities: "The true power of Trump Accounts lies not only in the dollars saved and invested, but in the education and experience they create. Financial education and financial participation go hand in hand."
He concluded by urging all federal agencies represented at the meeting to align their programs with Trump Accounts: "As chair of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission, I intend to use this Commission as a platform for action. I am calling on every federal agency represented here to mobilize around Trump Accounts—by aligning programs, sharing expertise, and integrating these accounts into your financial education, outreach, and service efforts."
Bessent then turned over proceedings to Geof Gradler acting for Vice Chair of the Commission.
